Smith’s waiting for transfer green light (From Bournemouth Echo)

Smith’s waiting for transfer green light

7:00am Friday 10th July 2009 in

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CHERRIES transfer target Lewis Smith is pinning his hopes on starting the new season at Dean Court.

The 19-year-old striker has been tracked by boss Eddie Howe ever since he impressed in a reserve outing against Bristol City in April.

But with Cherries still subject to a rolling Football League transfer embargo, Smith has been left in limbo as Howe’s hands have been tied.

The teenager, released by Fulham at the end of last season, has already agreed terms with Cherries and is waiting to sign on the dotted line once the green light is given.

In the meantime, Smith will continue to train with Howe’s charges and will feature in Cherries’ pre-season campaign.

Speaking to the Daily Echo following Cherries’ 2-1 defeat by Poole on Wednesday, Smith said: “It’s frustrating for me and the management. We want to get it done and we just need to wait for the embargo to be lifted.

“I would like to think I could do well here. Bournemouth is a great club and I have enjoyed being around the place.

“Everyone seems easy to get on with and they are a great bunch of lads.

“I think we could do well here next season.

“I’ve been very impressed with Eddie and Jason and the set up is good here. I would very much like to be a part of it.”

Smith netted 12 goals in 17 games to help Bishop’s Stortford avoid relegation from Blue Square South during a period of work experience from Fulham last season.

He was snapped up by Stortford in December through his connection with coach Les Reed, the former director of football at Craven Cottage.

Smith said: “Les took me there to get some games in and I had a great time. I scored a few goals and, hopefully, I can take that into next season with Bournemouth.

“I hope everything can be sorted out in the next couple of weeks and then we can take it from there because I’m keen to get it finalised.”

Smith got another run-out in last night’s comfortable Cherries victory over Hamworthy Recreation at Magna Road.